There has been a significant change in our region and the world since Australia hosted the Indian Ocean Conference just two years ago. The prosperity, peace, and resilience we seek are being seriously challenged. We all know that the conflict in the Middle East has had far-reaching implications for our region. As Indian Ocean countries, we are grappling with the profound implications for energy supplies, agricultural products, and economic growth.
This crisis only underscores the global importance of the Indian Ocean region and the relevance of this year’s theme, “Collective stewardship for Indian Ocean governance”. Australia wants a region that is peaceful and predictable, governed by accepted rules and norms, where we can all cooperate, trade, and thrive. That is why the Indian Ocean Conference and key Indian Ocean institutions, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), remain so important. Australia and India have been co-leading the IORA Maritime Safety and Security Working Group over the past two years, and that work has only become more vital given the uncertainty and instability we face.
Iran’s de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, together with its attacks on commercial vessels, civilian infrastructure, and oil and gas facilities, has triggered unprecedented energy supply shocks and undermined our shared security and prosperity. We will continue working with international partners to support diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, so that critical supplies can reach those who need them, including the most vulnerable.
To this end, we welcome the agreement by the United States, Israel, and Iran for a two-week ceasefire to negotiate a resolution to the conflict in the Middle East. The implications of the Middle East conflict underscore the importance of working together to support peace in our region and beyond. Australia will always remain a principled Indian Ocean power and a reliable Indian Ocean partner because this region is our region, and together we determine its character and decide its future. Working together, we can achieve a shared vision of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
Author Brief Bio: H.E. Penny Wong is the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia
